________________
Exposition of Pratikramana Stotras
respect one bows down touching five body parts; the head, both hands and knees on the ground, it is also called Panchänga Pränipata Sutra.
4. Ichchhakära sutra
Object: To enquire about the welfare of the spiritual master during his journey on the path of righteousness.
Sutra and Meaning: ઈચ્છકારા સુહરાઈ? સહદેવસિ? સુખતાપ? શરીર નિરાબાધ સુખ સંજમ જાત્રા, નિર્વહો છોજી? સ્વામી! શાતા છે જી? ભાત પાણીનો લાભ દેજોજી. ichchhäkära! suha räi? suha-devasi? sukha tapa? Sharira niräbädha? sukha sanjama jäträ nirvaho chho ji? swämi! sätä chhe ji? bhät päni no läbha dejo ji Oh! Master! I hope and wish you were comfortable during night and day and while performing austerity, keeping in good health and following the path of righteousness. Oh master are you in peace? Will you please do me favor and accept the alms?
Explanation: Spiritual preceptor (guru) in Jain religion is defined as one who rejects the mundane existence and follows the path of liberation. What is importance of spiritual preceptor? If we look into past every great person had a preceptor (guru) for proper guidance. Without his guidance it is not possible to achieve anything. Always respect him, serve him to best of your ability and ask his permission and act according to his instruction to start any religious activity.
